Social Network Also Continues to Build Its User Base

Facebook Inc. proved its recent advertising windfalls were no fluke, nearly tripling profit on a 72% increase in revenue in its first quarter, surpassing Wall Street expectations.

The Menlo Park, Calif., company's gains, during a post-holiday period when advertising typically tapers, shows the success of its efforts to convince advertisers that it should be a significant part of their year-round marketing budgets.